Chamonix Snow Report: 25th February 2011

Although there isn't a great deal just off the piste to get some really nice fresh lines, the pistes are in the best condition they have been all season! The parks in good nick and jib spots on all the hills are looking pretty sweet as long as you can handle a few soft moguls after landing. The lift company have been well on top of things this week as it's been so busy and have been making snow wherever possible in case of another 2 month wait for this wonderful white substance!

For some of the best possible condition's available at this current moment in time I would make high recommendation for heading to the Grand Montets, it has many many snow cannons and north facing so the warmer temperatures during the day don't warm up the snow then freeze again at night causing a slightly icy undesirable condition in the mornings. It also has the largest available terrain to explore but is mostly filled with red and black runs. There a couple of blues but if you like your skiing a little more chilled then heading to Le Tour especially for your first days riding is a very good idea. Le Tour has some great relaxed blue runs and with some amazing scenery and even the possibility of skiing in to Switzerland if you fancy it as the border crosses part of the mountain. Brevent and Flegere where on the verge of closing 2 weeks ago due to severe lack of snow, and although the pistes there are in good condition now there are a few rocks poking through so be careful especially if you have fancy new skis or a board and are considering the off piste.

If you are in to your powder then when the weather is clear and your guide feels it's a good idea to head in to the back country then take the opportunity as the conditions especially round the back of the Brevent and Flegere areas are coming back in to excellent condition with fresh powder opportunities! Book a guide through Evolution 2 or the Bureau des Guides and you will get some of the highest qualified guides with an amazing amount of knowledge about the valley and the ability to take you to some of the best places to ride in the back country. If backcountry isn't your thing but you want to get the most out of your holiday then hiring a piste guide/host for a day or even a week is a really good idea. For skiing most chalet companies and hotels will know of someone or offer a ski service. However for snowboarders there is only one company operating in the valley called Blue Mile Snowsports (www.bluemilesnowsports.com) so make sure you get in touch if this is your thing.

Check out our Mountain Guide Listings for contact details of local guiding and activity companies.

Check out what to do around town once the lifts have closed with our Apres Ski Report - a weekly round up of what's hot and where to party in Chamonix!